Discovering Nature and Friendship at Explore Park: Blue Ridge Parkway 🌟
Welcome back to our journey through the heart of Virginia! 🌳 Today, we’re excited to share our latest adventure at Explore Park, a hidden gem that brought us closer together and deepened our appreciation for nature and each other. Located at Milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, this expansive 1,100-acre park offers a myriad of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. 🚶♂️🌿
HIKING
Author: Fay | Photographs and Videos: Toni
9/19/20242 min read
A Perfect Day at Explore Park ☀️
Our day began early as we headed to Explore Park, with excitement in our hearts. We drove to the far back of the park where a small parking area awaited us, offering easy access to the trails. The best part? It was completely free and strangely quiet for a Sunday! 🎉
Outdoor Adventures Await 🚴♀️🏞️
Explore Park boasts over 14 miles of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails that wind through lush forests and along the picturesque Roanoke River. But we weren’t going to explore all that!
At 10 am, we set off on the Historic Loop, eager to immerse ourselves in the beauty and tranquility of the park. The loop was nothing short of breathtaking, with lush greenery and the preservation of historic buildings accompanying our every step. We were so captivated by the serene surroundings that we decided to extend our hike onto another Greenway, allowing us to fully embrace the natural wonders around us. 🌳💚
Fun Fact: The park is a designated site on the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. 🦆🐿️
Adorable Encounters and Peaceful Moments 🐕🌊
Along the way, we were delighted to meet several cute dogs, their wagging tails and friendly faces adding an extra layer of joy to our hike. 🐶 We couldn't resist petting them, their playful energy perfectly complementing the peaceful ambiance of the park. 🥰
As we continued our journey, we came across the river—a highlight of our day. The water flowed gently, its soothing sound creating a sense of calm that washed over us. 🌅 We took a moment to pause and absorb the tranquility, grateful for the connection of friendship flowing in our lives. 🙏
Historical Exploration 🏛️🔍
The park is an historic area, which features dozens of reconstructed buildings that reflect the rich history of Southwest Virginia from the 1800s to the early 20th century. 🏘️ We passed the old frontier village, that was completed with log cabins some of which were closed for restoration. Excited to see the finished product. There were information plaques that provided a glimpse into the past. 📜
Cherishing the Experience 💖
By the time we finished our hike, both of us were tired (hit 5000+ steps each) but deeply content. 😌 The fresh air, beautiful scenery, and the simple pleasure of each other’s company made it such a nice day. 🌞 Our shared experience at Explore Park was a wonderful reminder of the bond we share and the joy that comes from exploring together. 🤗
Join Us on Our Next Adventure 🚀
Thank you for joining us on this delightful journey through Explore Park. Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue to uncover the hidden treasures of Virginia, one step at a time. 👣
With love and charred lips, Fay and Toni,
Wondalove Sisters 💕
